Bradley congratulates Portstewart Golf Club

Sports Desk

East Londonderry MLA Maurice Bradley has welcomed today’s announce that the Irish Open 2017 will be held at Portstewart Golf Club on the north coast.

He said: “This is fantastic news for golf in Northern Ireland in general and the North-Coast in particular.

“Supported also by the Rory McIlroy and his charity foundation, the Irish Open 2017 will move to July 6 to 9th just two weeks before the British Open which could potentially see the biggest names in the world of golf playing on the links at Portstewart.

“This announcement follows on from the Irish Open being held at neighbouring Royal Portrush, and is testament to the hard work which has taken place Portstewart Golf Club and clubhouse to make it one of the best courses available.

“The fact that Portstewart has been selected to host the Irish Open could open the doors to the course becoming one of the selected venues for qualifying when Portrush hosts the 148th Open in 2019, the first time golf’s oldest and most international Championship has been held in the Province for nearly 70 years.

“This will be a further boost to tourism in the area. First Minister Arlene Foster has long been advocate for the game in Northern Ireland, our member of Parliament Gregory Campbell and various Ministers at the Storming.

“Congratulations to all at Portstewart in their vision for the club, this is a just reward. We in the DUP representing East Londonderry will work with our colleagues on the Causeway Coast and Glens Council to ensure it is a success,” said Bradley.